Crossing Guard

POSITION: School Crossing Guard QUALIFICATIONS: Demonstrated competence for assigned performance responsibilities REPORTS TO: Superintendent or Designee JOB FUNCTION: To provide safe access via walk paths to and from Brookwood School District 167 property by providing adult supervised crossing(s) at designated public streets.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Direct or escort pedestrians safely across streets, stopping traffic as necessary.
• Direct traffic movement or warn of hazards, using signs, flags, lanterns, and hand signals.
• Communicate traffic and crossing rules and other information to students and adults.
• Learn the location and purpose of street traffic signs within assigned patrol areas.
• Serves as a good example to children.
• Maintains regular and consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Follows universal precautions in accordance with OSHA standards.
• Other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Superintendent.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary, fringe benefits, and work year to be established by the Board of Education.

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions and the Board’s policy on Evaluation of Educational Personnel.

Expectations of Effective School Crossing Guards

• Ensure Safety First
• Safely guide children and other pedestrians across streets, especially during school start and end times.
• Monitor traffic and ensure that all vehicles have come to a complete stop before allowing anyone to cross.
• Be Vigilant and Alert
• Constantly observe traffic flow, driver behavior, and pedestrian movement.
• Stay off phones or any distractions – 100% focus is required at all times.
• Professional Conduct
• Serve as a role model by following traffic rules and behaving respectfully.
• Maintain a calm, friendly, and authoritative demeanor – especially when dealing with children, parents, or aggressive drivers.
• Communicate Clearly
• Use hand signals and/or a whistle confidently to direct both pedestrians and drivers.
• Give clear instructions to children – especially younger ones – who may be unsure what to do.
• Wear Proper Gear
• Always wear high-visibility clothing (like reflective vests) and use a standard stop paddle for directing traffic.
• Be presentable and weather-appropriate – the role is outdoor in all types of weather.
• Be Dependable and Punctual
• Arrive on time for assigned shifts – children rely on consistency.
• Stay for the entire duty period, including early arrivals or late dismissals if needed.
• Understand the Law and Protocols
• Know local traffic laws and school crossing procedures.
• Be prepared to report incidents, unsafe driver behavior, or hazards to the appropriate authorities.
• Engage Positively with the Community
• Greet children and parents warmly; help foster a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
• Recognize familiar faces and be alert to any unusual behavior or situations.

Things Crossing Guards Should Avoid:

• Getting Distracted
• Avoid using your phone, eating, or chatting excessively while on duty. Always keep your eyes on traffic and the crosswalk.
• Standing in Unsafe Spots
• Don’t stand in the middle of the road unless it’s time to stop traffic. Stay visible but safe when not actively crossing people.
• Turning Your Back to Traffic
• Always face the direction traffic is coming from when entering the street – you need to see the drivers and make eye contact if possible.
• Waving Cars Through While Kids Are Present
• Never signal vehicles to go through when children are waiting or crossing. Always prioritize pedestrians.
• Crossing Without the Sign
• Don’t cross anyone without holding up your stop sign clearly. It’s your badge of authority – use it every time.
• Letting Kids Cross Alone
• Avoid assuming kids will cross safely on their own – always escort them or guide them firmly but kindly.
• Arguing With Drivers or Parents
• Stay calm and professional, even if someone is rude or impatient. Let your supervisor or local authorities handle repeat offenders.
• Not Wearing Safety Gear
• Don’t skip wearing your reflective vest or using your stop paddle – they’re crucial for visibility.
• Crossing During Unofficial Times
• Stick to your assigned times. If you’re not scheduled or trained for certain times of the day, it’s risky to act on your own.
• Ignoring Weather Conditions
• Don’t forget to adjust your stance and alertness depending on weather – slippery roads, fog, or snow make your job harder and more dangerous.
• Sitting in Your Car
• Crossing Guards need to be visible and ready at all times to ensure student safety.